Liquid dispenser

ABSTRACT

Provided is a water purifier. The water purifier includes a water purifier body including a housing defining an outer appearance and a filter provided in the housing to filter raw water introduced from the outside, a water discharge module including a water discharge nozzle that protrudes forward from the water purifier body to supply the water passing through the filter to the outside of the water purifier body, and a tray disposed below the water discharge nozzle. The water discharge module is provided to be elevatable.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is a Continuation Application of prior U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/863,539, filed Jan. 5, 2018, which claimspriority under 35 U.S.C. 119 and 35 U.S.C. 365 to Korean PatentApplication No. 10-2017-0004019, filed in Korea on Jan. 11, 2017, whichis hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND 1. Field

The present disclosure relates to a water purifier.

2. Background

In general, water purifiers are being used for household purposes asmechanisms that filter water to remove impurities. Generally, waterpurifiers are connected to a water supply system to remove floatingmatters or harmful components, which are contained in tap water andpurify as much water as desired by user's manipulation to dispense thepurified water.

Water purifiers are being released in various products, which arecapable of dispensing hot water and cold water as well as purifiedwater. In recent years, water purifiers capable of being installed invarious installation environments with small sizes are being developed.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, a water purifier 1 includes a cabinet 2defining an outer appearance thereof and a dispenser 3. Here, thedispenser 3 means a space in which a user receives drinking water. Thus,the dispenser 3 may be generally defined in a front portion of thecabinet 2.

A cock 4 through which drinking water is discharged is provided in thedispenser 3, and a tray 5 on which a water glass is placed is disposedbelow the cock 4. In this state, when a user manipulates a lever or abutton 6, stored water may be dispensed through the cock 4. That is,while the user manipulates the lever or the button 6, a valve of thecock 4 is opened to dispense water. Here, the user terminates themanipulation of the lever or the button 6 while confirming an amount ofwater filled into a cup or a container. The water purifier according tothe related art is in a fixed state so that a water discharge port,i.e., the cock 4 is maintained at a constant height.

However, in the water purifier according to the related art, when thewater glass is placed on the tray to dispense water, a portion of thedispensed water collides with the water glass while the water drops intothe water glass and thus is splashed out of the water glass due to adifference in height between the water discharge port and the waterglass. Particularly, in case of a water glass having a short length, agreater amount of water may be splashed out of the water glass.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the followingdrawings in which like reference numerals refer to like elements, andwherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a water purifieraccording to a related art;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a water purifier according to anembodiment;

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the water purifier;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a water discharge module that is aportion of components according to an embodiment;

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the water discharge module;

FIG. 6 is a front view illustrating a state in which a movable case ofthe water discharge module ascends;

FIG. 7 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating the state inwhich the movable case of the water discharge module ascends;

FIG. 8 is a front view illustrating a state in which the movable case ofthe water discharge module descends;

FIG. 9 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating the state inwhich the movable case of the water discharge module descends;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which a resistanceunit and a guide piece, which are portions of components, are connectedto each other according to an embodiment;

FIG. 11 is a transversal cross-sectional view of a water dischargemodule that is a portion of components according to an embodiment;

FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of an area A of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which a tray ofthe water purifier rotates;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view illustrating a base of the water purifier;

FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a couplingstructure of the base and the tray;

FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a couplingstructure of the tray of the water purifier;

FIG. 17 is a view illustrating a full level state of the tray;

FIG. 18 is a schematic circuit diagram illustrating a flow path of waterin the water purifier; and

FIG. 19 is a block diagram illustrating a flow of a control signal inthe water purifier.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, a water purifier 10 according to anembodiment may include a water purifier body 100 including a housing 110defining an outer appearance and a filter 120 provided in the housing110 to filter raw water introduced from the outside, a water dischargemodule 200 including a water discharge nozzle 280 that protrudes forwardfrom the water purifier body 100 to supply the water passing through thefilter 120 to the outside of the water purifier body 100, and a tray 300disposed below the water discharge nozzle 280.

The outer appearance of the water purifier body 100 may be defined bythe housing 110. The housing 110 includes a front cover 111 defining anouter appearance of a front surface, a rear cover 112 defining an outerappearance of a rear surface, a base 113 defining a bottom surface, atop cover 114 defining a top surface, and side panels 115 defining bothleft and right surfaces. The front cover 111, the rear cover 112, thebase 113, the top cover 114, and the pair of side panels 115 may beassembled with each other to constitute the housing 110 defining theouter appearance of the water purifier body 100.

Here, each of front and rear ends of the base 113 and the top cover 114may be rounded. Each of the front cover 111 and the rear cover 112 mayprotrude forward and backward to have a curvature corresponding to eachof the front and rear ends of the base 113 and the top cover 114, whichare rounded.

Also, the water discharge module 200 is disposed on the front surface ofthe water purifier body 100. The water discharge module 200 may protrudeforward from the front cover 111 to dispense purified water through thewater discharge nozzle 280 that protrudes downward.

For this, mounting grooves 111 a and 114 a may be defined in the frontcover 111 and the top cover 114 so the water discharge module 200 isinserted and fixed.

In detail, the mounting groove 111 a may have a shape that is recesseddownward from a central upper end of the front cover 111, and themounting groove 114 a may have a shape that is recessed backward from afront end of the top cover 114.

The water discharge module 200 will be described below in more detail.

A filter 120 for purifying water and a filter bracket 130 on which aplurality of valves (not shown) are mounted may be provided in thehousing 110.

The filter bracket 130 may include a bottom part 131 coupled to the base113, a filter accommodation part 132 in which the filter 120 isaccommodated, and a water discharge module mounting part 133 on whichthe water discharge module 200 is mounted.

In detail, the bottom part 131 may have a shape corresponding to that ofthe front end of the base 113 and be coupled to the base 113. The bottompart 131 may be coupled to fix a mounted position of the filter bracket130 and define a shape of a bottom surface of the filter accommodationpart 132.

The filter bracket 130 may be hooked to the base in a hook manner.Alternatively, the filter bracket 130 may be fixed by using a screw thatis coupled to the bottom surface of the base 113.

The filter accommodation part 132 may extend in a vertical direction anddefine a space that is recessed backward (a right side in the drawing)from a front side (a left side in the drawing) to accommodate the filter120. A plurality of filters 120 may be mounted on the filteraccommodation part 132. The filter 120 may purify supplied raw water(tap water) and be constituted by combination of filters having variousfunctions.

Also, a filter socket 134 on which the filter 120 is mounted may befurther provided in the filter accommodation part 132. A tube throughwhich the purified water flows may be provided in the filter socket 134and connected to a plurality of valves (not shown). Thus, the raw watermay sequentially pass through the filters 120 to flow to the valve (notshown) for supplying water.

The plurality of valves (not shown) may be provided in a rear surface (aright side in the drawing) of the filter accommodation part 132. Thevalves (not shown) may selectively supply purified water, cold water,and hot water to the filter 120, a cooling tank 150, an inductionheating assembly 160, and the water discharge module 200.

The water discharge module mounting part 133 is disposed on an upper endof the filter accommodation part 132. The water discharge modulemounting part 133 has a structure in which a mounting groove 133 a isdefined downward from an upper side in an upper end of the waterdischarge module mounting part 133 so that the water discharge module200 is inserted and fixed. Here, the water discharge module mountingpart 133 may have a curvature corresponding to that of the front cover111 that covers a front side of the water discharge module mounting part133. An upper portion of the filter bracket 130 may be covered by thetop cover 114.

A compressor 141 and a condenser 142 are provided on the top surface ofthe base 113. Also, a cooling fan 143 is disposed between the compressor141 and the condenser 142 to cool the compressor 141 and the condenser142. An inverter-type compressor capable of adjusting cooling capacityby varying a frequency may be used as the compressor 141. Thus, thepurified water may be efficiently cooled to reduce power consumption.

Also, the condenser 142 may be disposed at a rear side of the base 113and also disposed at a position corresponding to a discharge hole 112 adefined in the rear cover 112. The condenser 142 may have a structure inwhich a flat tube-type refrigerant tube is bent several times toefficiently use a space and improve heat-exchange efficiency and beaccommodated in a condenser bracket 144.

A condenser mounting part or housing 145 to which the condenser 142 isfixed and a tank mounting part 146 on which a cooling tank 150 formaking cold water is mounted may be provided in the condenser bracket144. The condenser mounting part 145 provides a space having a shapecorresponding to the whole shape of the condenser 142 to accommodate thecondenser 142. Also, the condenser mounting part 145 has portions thatare opened and face the cooling fan 143 and the discharge hole 112 a toeffectively cool the condenser 142.

Also, the tank mounting part or housing 146 is disposed on the condenserbracket 144, i.e., above the condenser mounting part 145. A lower end ofthe cooling tank 150 is inserted into the tank mounting part 146 toallow the tank mounting part 146 to fix the cooling tank 150.

The cooling tank 150 cools purified water to make cold water, andcooling water that is heat-exchanged with the introduced purified wateris filled into the cooling tank 150. Also, an evaporator 151 for coolingthe cooling water may be accommodated in the cooling tank 150. Also, thepurified water may pass through the cooling tank 150 so as to be cooled.

A support plate 135 extending to the cooling tank 150 may be furtherprovided at one side of the filter bracket 130. The support plate 135may be disposed above the compressor 141 and extend from the filterbracket 130 up to the condenser bracket 144 to provide a space in whicha heating and control module 160 and 170 are mounted.

The heating and control module 160 and 170 may include an inductionheating assembly 160 for making hot water and a control assembly 170 forcontrolling an overall operation of the water purifier 10. The inductionheating assembly 160 and the control assembly 170 may be coupled to eachother to form one module and then be mounted on the support plate 135.

The induction heating assembly 160 may heat the purified water in aninduction heating manner. The induction heating assembly 160 mayimmediately and quickly heat water when dispensing of hot water ismanipulated and also may control an output of magnetic fields to heatthe purified water at a desired temperature and thereby to provide thehot water to the user. Thus, hot water having a desired temperature maybe dispensed according to the user's manipulation.

The control assembly 170 may control an operation of the water purifier10. That is, the control assembly 170 may control the compressor 141,the cooling fan 143, various valves and sensors, and the inductionheating assembly 160. The control assembly 170 may be provided as amodule by combination of PCBs (printed circuit boards) that are dividedinto a plurality of parts for each function. Also, in a structure fordispensing only cold water and purified water from the water purifier10, a PCB for controlling the induction heating assembly 160 may beomitted, and also, at least one or more PCBs may be omitted in theabove-described manner.

Hereinafter, the water discharge module that is a portion of thecomponent according to an embodiment will be described in more detail.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the water discharge module that is aportion of the components according to an embodiment. Also, FIG. 5 is anexploded perspective view of the water discharge module.

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the water discharge module 200 includes afixed case 210 providing an elevation space in a vertical direction,having a lower side so that the elevation space 211 communicates withthe outside so as to provide an opening, and fixed to the water purifierbody 100, a movable case 220 to which the water discharge nozzle 280 isfixed and which is accommodated in the elevation space or opening 211 ofthe fixed case 210 so as to be elevated, and a resistance unit 230provided in the fixed case 210 or the movable case 220 to reduceelevation force, which is applied to the movable case 220, to allow themovable case to ascend or descend.

The fixed case 210 is detachably fixed to the water purifier body 100and supports the movable case 220 so that the movable case 220 iselevatable in the state of being fixed to the water purifier body 100.Thus, the movable case 220 may be elevated in the state of beingsupported to the water purifier 10 by the fixed case 210.

Also, the fixed case 210 may have the elevation space or space 211 inwhich the movable case 220 is accommodated, and the lower end of theelevation space 211 may be opened to communicate with the outside. Thus,the movable case 220 accommodated in the elevation space 211 may beadjustably attached to the fixed case to appear or disappear downwardfrom the fixed case 210 so as to afford vertical adjustment of themovable case within the space.

In this embodiment, the fixed case 210 may have an opened rear surface(a right side in the drawing) connected to the water purifier body 100.For example, the fixed case 210 may include a front part and a side partextending backward from each of both sides of the front part.

The water discharge nozzle 280 is fixed to a lower end of the movablecase 220, and the movable case 220 is accommodated into the elevationspace 211 of the fixed case 210 and thus elevated while coming intocontact with and being supported by the fixed case 210.

The movable case 220 may have an outer appearance corresponding to thatof the elevation space 211 of the fixed case 210. For example, each ofthe fixed case 210 and the movable case 220 may have a rectangularcross-section. For another example, each of the fixed case 210 and themovable case 220 may have a circular cross-section. Respectively, eachof the fixed case 210 and the movable case 220 may have variouscross-sections.

In this embodiment, the movable case 220 may have an opened rear surface(a right side in the drawing) facing the water purifier body 100. Whenthe rear surface of the movable case 220 is opened as described above,an inner space of the water purifier body 100 may communicate with aninner space of the movable case 220, and thus, a supply hose or supplyline 190 for supplying at least one of purified water, cold water, andhot water, which are generated in the water purifier body 100, to thewater discharge nozzle 280 provided in the movable case 220 may beconnected.

For example, the movable case 220 may include a front part and a sidepart extending backward from each of both sides of the front part.

Also, the fixed case 210 and the movable case 220 may have a projectionpart and a groove part at positions corresponding to each other in theelevation direction or direction of the vertical adjustment of themovable case 220, respectively. Thus, straight movement of the movablecase 220 may be guided while coupling force between the fixed case 210and the movable case 220 increases.

Here, when the groove part is provided in the fixed case 210, theprojection part inserted into the groove part may be provided on themovable case 220.

On the other hand, when the projection part is provided on the fixedcase 210, the groove part into which the projection part is inserted maybe provided in the movable case 220.

The resistance unit 230 may be disposed on the fixed case 210 or themovable case 220. The resistance unit 230 may reduce elevation force,which is applied to the movable case 220, to allow the movable case 220to ascend or descend.

Here, “the elevation force applied to the movable case 220” may mean allforce having an influence on the elevation operation of the movable case220.

For example, the elevation force may include force pulling the movablecase 220 downward so that the movable case 220 descends or force pushingthe movable case 220 upward so that the movable case 220 ascends. Also,the elevation may include force for allowing the movable case 220 todescend by gravity.

As described above, when the movable case 220 is elevated with respectto the fixed case 210, the movable case 220 may randomly descend by aself-weight. That is, in the state in which the movable case 220 iscompletely accommodated in the fixed case 210, the movable case 220descends out of the fixed case 210 by the self-weight of the movablecase 220. In addition, in a state in which the user holds the movablecase 220 to allow the movable case 220 to descend up to a desiredposition, when a user's hand leaves from the movable case 220, themovable case 220 may randomly further descend by the self-weight thereofwithout being fixed to the position. That is, it is difficult tomaintain a height of the movable case 220.

According to an embodiment, to prevent this phenomenon, the resistanceunit 230 is provided on the fixed case 210 and the movable case 220.

The resistance unit 230 may reduce the elevation force, which is appliedto the movable case 220, to allow the movable case to ascend or descend.

Thus, in the state in which the movable case 220 is completelyaccommodated in the fixed case 210, the movable case 220 may bemaintained in the accommodated state without randomly descending by theself-weight thereof. Also, in the state in which the user holds themovable case 220 to allow the movable case 220 to descend up to adesired position, although the user's hand leaves from the movable case220, the movable case 220 may be fixed to the position. Thus, the waterdischarge nozzle 280 may be disposed at a height that is desired by theuser to dispense water.

Here, the resistance unit 230 may be selected within a range in whichthe user does not exert excessive force to manipulate the elevation ofthe movable case 220 while preventing the movable case 220 fromdescending by the self-weight. Also, the resistance unit 230 may beadopted within a range in which user's operational sensitivity forelevating the movable case 220 is improved.

For example, the resistance unit or damper 230 may be made of a rubbermaterial having friction force and an oil material having viscosity.Alternatively, the resistance unit 230 may be variously adopted within arange in which the elevation force applied to the movable case 220 isreduced.

An example of the resistance unit 230 will be described below in detail.

Also, according to an embodiment, a manipulation part 410 may bedisposed on a top surface of the water discharge module 220, and thewater discharge button 420 may be disposed on a front surface of thewater discharge module 220.

As described above, to provide the manipulation part 410 to the topsurface of the water discharge module 220, an accommodation space inwhich the manipulation part 410 is accommodated may be defined in thetop surface of the fixed case 210.

According to an embodiment, the manipulation part 410 may be disposed onthe top surface of the water discharge module 220. Thus, tall adults mayeasily adjust an overall operation of the water purifier 10. On theother hand, short child may not recognize the manipulation part 410disposed on the top surface of the water discharge module 220 and alsoprevent safety accidents such as burning of the hand due to hot waterfrom occurring when the child randomly push the manipulation part 410 todispense the hot water.

On the other hand, the water discharge button 420 may be disposed on thefront surface of the water discharge module 220. Thus, all the adultsand the short child may recognize the water discharge button 420 andalso easily manipulate the water discharge button 420 to dispense waterwhen discharge of the water is required.

Also, the water discharge module 220 may further include a front case290 covering a front surface of the fixed case 210.

As described above, when the front case 290 covers the front surface ofthe water discharge module, since components such as a resistance unit230 and a guide part 240, which will be described later, are not exposedto the outside, the water discharge module 220 may be maintained with anelegant outer appearance.

Also, the front case 290 may be detachably coupled to the fixed case210. Thus, as necessary, the front case 290 may be separated from thefixed case 210 to check the resistance unit 230 and the guide part orguide assembly 240. For example, the front case 290 and the fixed case210 may be coupled to each other by using a hook in a detachable manner.

Also, the front case 290 may include an upper border 291 coupled to anupper end of the fixed case 210. The manipulation part 410 may beaccommodated inside the border 291. The border 291 may be provided toimprove coupling force between the front case 290 and the fixed case210.

In this embodiment, a water discharge button exposing hole is defined inthe front case 290 to allow the water discharge button 420 to be exposedto the outside of the front case 290.

Also, the water discharge nozzle 280 may be made of a stainless steelmaterial.

As described above, when the water discharge nozzle 280 is made of thestainless steel material, the water discharge nozzle 280 may be hygienicbecause it does not rust and prevent damage and deformation from beingoccurring due to the frequent use. Also, the water purifier 10 may beelegant in outer appearance and also additionally realize a luxuriousimage.

Also, the water discharge nozzle 280 may be integrated with the movablecase 220 or a connection member 281 connecting the movable case 220 tothe water discharge nozzle 280 through an insert injection manner.

Here, the connection member 281 may be a part connecting the waterdischarge nozzle 280 to the supply hose 190 and be detachably coupled tothe movable case 220.

As described above, when the water discharge nozzle 280 is integratedwith the movable case 220 or the connection member 281 through theinsert injection manner, coupling force between the water dischargenozzle 280 and the movable case 220 or connection member 281,furthermore, the supply hose 190 may increase to prevent water fromleaking. Also, the manufacture may be facilitated when compared to theexisting assembly method.

FIG. 6 is a front view illustrating a state in which the movable case ofthe water discharge module ascends, and FIG. 7 is a longitudinalcross-sectional view illustrating the state in which the movable case ofthe water discharge module ascends. Also, FIG. 8 is a front viewillustrating a state in which the movable case of the water dischargemodule descends, and FIG. 9 is a longitudinal cross-sectional viewillustrating the state in which the movable case of the water dischargemodule descends.

Referring to FIGS. 6 to 9, the guide part 240 for guiding the movablecase 220 to be elevated may be disposed on the fixed case 210 or themovable case 220.

Since the movable case 220 is elevated in the movable case 220 isaccommodated in the fixed case 210, the movable case 220 may bestraightly elevated by the fixed case 210. However, when the movablecase 220 is exposed to the outside of the fixed case 210 and thus isslightly shaken in a horizontal direction, the elevation operation ofthe movable case may be instable. If this phenomenon is repeated, thefixed case 210 or the movable case 220 may be deformed or damaged.

According to this embodiment, to prevent this phenomenon from occurring,the separate guide part 240 is provided.

The guide part 240 may be variously adopted within a range in which theguide part 240 guides the straight elevation of the movable case 220while the movable case 220 is supported by the fixed case 210.

For example, the guide part 240 may include a straight rail verticallydisposed on the fixed case 210 and a roller disposed on the movable case220 to travel along the straight rail.

Alternatively, the guide part 240 may include a straight rail verticallydisposed on the movable case 220 and a roller disposed on the fixed case210 to travel along the straight rail.

Alternatively, the guide part 240 may include a guide groove 241 definedin the fixed case 210 in the elevation direction and a guide piece 242disposed on the movable case 220 and inserted into the guide groove 241.

Alternatively, the guide part 240 may include a guide groove defined inthe movable case 220 in the elevation direction and a guide pieceprovided on the fixed case 220 and inserted into the guide groove.

Here, the guide piece 242 may be inserted into the guide groove 241having a linear shape to straightly move along the guide groove 241.Thus, the movable case 220 may be straightly elevated.

Also, the guide piece 242 may be rotatably mounted on the movable case220.

As described above, when the guide piece 242 is rotatably mounted on themovable case 220, friction force between the guide piece 242 and theguide groove 241 may be minimized, and then, the movable case 220 may bestraightly elevated along the guide groove 241. Thus, the movable case220 may be smoothly elevated, and the user may feel improved operationalsensitivity.

Also, first gear teeth 241 a may be disposed inside the guide groove241, and second gear teeth 242 a engaged with the first gear teeth 241 amay be disposed on an outer circumferential surface of the guide piece242.

That is, the guide groove 241 and the guide piece 242 may be engagedwith each other in a rack and pinion manner. The guide piece 242 may bestraightly elevated along the guide groove 241 while rotating.

For example, when the user pulls the movable case 220 downward, theguide piece 242 may rotate in a counterclockwise direction in thedrawings to descend along the guide groove 241 in the state in which thegear teeth 241 a and 242 a are engaged with each other.

Alternatively, when the user pushes the movable case 220 upward, theguide piece 242 may rotate in a clockwise direction in the drawings toascend along the guide groove 241 in the state in which the gear teeth241 a and 242 a are engaged with each other.

As described above, when the gear teeth 241 a and 242 a are provided,since the gear teeth 241 a and 242 a are engaged with each other, theguide piece 242 may be more accurately straight elevated along the guidegroove 241 while rotating. As a result, the movable case 220 may be moreaccurately straightly elevated. Also, to prevent the guide piece 242from idling in the guide groove 241, the movable case 220 may beaccurately elevated to a height that is desired by the user.

Also, the first gear teeth 241 a or the second gear teeth 242 a mayinclude a linear section or a curved section, which has a shape that isperpendicular to or inclined in the elevation direction of the movablecase 220. Particularly, a portion or the whole of the first gear teeth241 a or the second gear teeth 242 a may have a curved shape.

As described above, when each of the first gear teeth 241 a or thesecond gear teeth 242 a has a curved shape, the first gear teeth 241 aand the second gear teeth 242 a may be smoothly engaged with each otherto allow the user to feel the improved operational sensitivity. Also,while the user holds the movable case 220 to elevate the movable case220, the first gear teeth 241 a or the second gear teeth 241 b may beprevented from being damaged by force applied to the first gear teeth241 a or the second gear teeth 241 b.

If each of the first gear teeth 241 a or the second gear teeth 241 b hasa linear shape to provide a sharp corner, the force may be concentratedinto the sharp corner to damage the sharp corner.

For example, each of the first gear teeth 241 a or the second gear teeth241 b may have an uneven portion that protrudes or is recessed in asemicircular shape.

In addition, each of the first gear teeth 241 a or the second gear teeth241 b may have various shapes so that the second gear teeth 242 a areengaged with the first gear teeth 241 a to securely transmit power, andthe guide piece 242 straightly moves along the guide groove 241.

Also, the resistance unit or damper 230 may be provided as an oildamper, such as a “dashpot,” for example.

The oil damper may mean a device in which an oil is provided in thehousing to absorb energy through viscosity resistance of the oil.

As described above, the oil damper may include, for example, acylindrical housing, an oil filled into the housing and havingpredetermined viscosity, a rotation wing having a plurality ofthrough-holes, through which the oil passes, and disposed in parallel toa radial direction of the housing, and a rotation shaft connected to therotation wing.

Thus, when rotation force is supplied to the rotation shaft, therotation force may be reduced by the viscosity resistance of the oil.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which theresistance unit and the guide piece, which are portions of thecomponents, are connected to each other according to an embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 10, the resistance unit 230 may be provided asthe oil damper, and the guide piece 242 may be connected to the rotationshaft 231 of the resistance unit 230.

That is, when the elevation force is applied to movable case 220 toallow the movable case 220 to ascend or descend, the guide piece 242rotatably connected to the movable case 220 may rotate.

Here, the rotation force of the guide piece 242 is reduced by theresistance unit 230, i.e., the oil damper.

Thus, in the state in which the movable case 220 is completelyaccommodated in the fixed case 210, the movable case 220 may bemaintained in the accommodated state without randomly descending by theviscosity resistance of the resistance unit 230. Also, in the state inwhich the user holds the movable case 220 to allow the movable case 220to descend up to a desired position, although the user's hand leavesfrom the movable case 220, the movable case 220 may be fixed to theposition by the viscosity resistance of the resistance unit 230.

Here, the oil viscosity of the oil damper may be variously adjustedwithin a range in which the user exerting an externally applied forcedoes not exert excessive force to manipulate the elevation of themovable case 220 while the resistance unit 230 prevents the movable case220 from descending by the self-weight. Also, the oil viscosity of theoil damper may be variously adjusted within a range in which the userfeels the improved operational sensitivity.

FIG. 11 is a transversal cross-sectional view of the water dischargemodule that is a portion of components according to an embodiment. Also,FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of an area A of FIG. 11.

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the fixed case 210 and the movable case220 may come into line contact with each other.

Here, the “line contact” may mean a point contact between the fixed case210 and the movable case 220 as illustrated in the cross-sectional viewsof FIGS. 11 and 12, and then, the point contact is continuouslyconnected in the elevation direction of the movable case 220 to form alinear contact between the fixed case 210 and the movable case 220 alongthe elevation direction of the movable case 220.

For this, at least one or more contact projections 216 and 226 may bedisposed on the fixed case 210 or the movable case 220 in the elevationdirection of the movable case 220.

For example, when the contact projection 216 is disposed on the fixedcase 210, the contact projection 216 may come into line contact with themovable case 220. For another example, when the contact projection 226is disposed on the movable case 220, the contact projection 226 may comeinto line contact with the fixed case 210.

For another example, when the contact projection 216 is disposed on thefixed case 210, a contact groove may be defined in the movable case 220at a position corresponding to the contact projection 216. Also, whenthe contact projection 226 is disposed on the movable case 220, acontact groove may be defined in the fixed case 210 at a positioncorresponding to the contact projection 226.

As described above, when the fixed case 210 and the movable case 220come into line contact with the contact projections 216 and 226, thefriction force between the fixed case 210 and the movable case 220 maybe minimally reduced, and also, the fixed case 210 and the movable case220 may be contact-supported to each other to allow the movable case 220to be stably elevated. Also, the deformation of the fixed case 210 andthe movable case 220 such as warpage may be maximally prevented by thecontact support therebetween.

For example, each of the contact projections 216 and 226 may have atransversal cross-section having a convex semicircular shape. When eachof the contact projections 216 and 226 has a curved shape as describedabove, the movable case 220 may be more smoothly elevated in the statein which the fixed case 210 and the movable case 220 come into linecontact with each other.

Also, the fixed case 210 may include a wing part 215 extending outwardfrom each of both sides of a rear portion thereof, and the movable case220 may include an extension part 225 a extending in parallel to thewing part 215 from each of both sides of the rear portion of the movablecase 220 and a bent part 225 b extending to be bent forward from theextension part 225 a and have an end on which a hook 225 c is disposedinward. Thus, the wing part 215 may be accommodated in the accommodationgroove 227 between the extension part 225 a and the hook 225 c.

The end of the fixed case 210 may be reinforced by the wing part 215 andthus be prevented from being deformed such as warpage.

Also, an accommodation groove 227 in which the wing part 215 isaccommodated may be defined in the movable case 220 to improve thecoupling force with the fixed case 210 and thereby to prevent themovable case 220 from being separated from the fixed case 210 andprevent the movable case 220 and the fixed case 210 from being mutuallydeformed.

Also, when the wing part 215 is disposed on the fixed case 210, and thehook 225 c is disposed on the movable case 220, the movable case 220 andthe fixed case 210 may be detachably coupled to each other in the hookmanner.

In this embodiment, the movable case 220 may include a guide member 225.

Here, the guide member 225 may be coupled to the movable case 220through a coupling unit 228 such as a bolt.

Also, the extension part 225 a, the bent part 225 b, and the hook 225 cmay be disposed on each of both sides of the guide member 225.

Thus, the guide member 225 may be elevated along the fixed case 210, andthe movable case 220 connected to the guide member 225 may also beelevated along the fixed case 210.

Also, the first contact projection 216 may be disposed on a surface ofthe wing part 215 facing the extension part 225 a in the elevationdirection of the movable case 220. The first contact projection 216 maycome into line contact with the extension part 225 a.

Also, the second contact projection 226 may be disposed on a surface ofthe hook 225 c facing the wing part 215 in the elevation direction ofthe movable case 220. The second contact projection 226 may come intoline contact with the wing part 215.

When the first contact projection 216 and the second contact projection226 are provided as described above, the fixed case 210 and the movablecase 220 may doubly come into line contact with each other, and themovable case 220 may be elevated. Thus, the movable case 220 may bestably elevated without being shaken in a front and rear direction.

Also, since the wing part 215 is accommodated in the accommodationgroove 227, the bent part 225 b may be supported by the wing part 215 toallow the movable case 220 to be stably elevated without being shaken inthe front and rear direction.

Also, inclined surfaces 215 a and 225 d that are parallel to each othermay be disposed on a front surface of the hook 225 c and a rear surfaceof the wing part 215.

When the inclined surfaces 215 a and 225 d are respectively disposed onthe hook 225 c and the wing part 215 as described above, the movablecase 220 may be easily inserted forward from a front side of the fixedcase 210.

For example, each of the fixed case 210 and the movable case 220 mayhave a rear surface that is in an opened state.

Here, although the movable case 220 is inserted from a rear side of thefixed case 210, if the wing part 215 and the hook 225 c are provided,the movable case 220 may not be smoothly inserted due to an interferencetherebetween.

To prevent this phenomenon, the inclined surfaces 215 a and 225 d thatare parallel to each other may be respectively disposed on the frontsurface of the hook 225 c and the rear surface of the wing part 215 sothat the movable case 220 is easily inserted forward from the rear sideof the fixed case 210.

Also, a handle part or handle portion 272 protruding outward may bedisposed on a lower end of each of both sides of the movable case 220,and a seating groove 217 in which the handle part 272 is seated may bedefined in a lower end of each of both sides of the fixed case 210.

Here, a stepped portion 271 may be disposed on an upper portion of thehandle part 272. Thus, when the user holds the handle part 272 to allowthe movable case 220 to ascend, the stepped portion 271 of the handlepart 272 may be hung on the seating groove 217. As a result, the seatinggroove 217 may serve as a topper for suppressing an ascending height ofthe movable case 220.

Also, a grasping groove 270 that is recessed inward may be defined inthe handle part 272.

When the grasping groove 270 is provided as described above, the usermay hold the grasping groove 270 to allow the movable case 220 to ascendor descend. Here, the movable case 220 may ascend or descend by the userwithout being slid.

For another example, an unevenness (

) for preventing the sliding when the movable case 220 ascends ordescends or a grasping projection protruding outward may be disposed onthe handle part 272.

Also, at least one of the fixed case 210 and the movable case 220 may bemade of an engineering plastic material having superior fatigueresistance, toughness, and abrasion resistance and lubricity.

For example, at least one of the fixed case 210 and the movable case 220may be made of a polyoxymethylene (POM) material.

Thus, when the movable case 220 is elevated within the fixed case 210,abrasion and noises due to the friction between the fixed case 210 andthe movable case 220 may be reduced.

Also, when the user pulls the movable case 220 downward to allow themovable case to descend or allows the descending movable case 220 toascend, the movable case 220 may be smoothly elevated to improve theoperational sensitivity.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which a tray ofthe water purifier rotates. Also, FIG. 14 is a perspective viewillustrating a base of the water purifier. Also, FIG. 15 is an explodedperspective view illustrating a structure in which the base and the trayare coupled to each other.

The tray 300 protrudes forward from the front cover 111 and is connectedto the base 113. Also, the tray 300 may be disposed just below the waterdischarge module 200. Also, the tray 300 may rotate by the user'smanipulation and be separated from the base 113. The tray 300 may have atop surface that has a grill shape so that water dropping from the waterdischarge module 200 is stored.

For this, a rotatable ring 310 that is rotatably mounted is disposed onthe base 113, and the tray 300 is detachably connected to the rotatablering 310. Thus, the tray 300 may be rotatably manipulated in the stateof being mounted. Also, if necessary, the tray 300 may be separated fromthe rotatable ring 310. Also, in the state in which the tray 300 iscoupled to the rotatable ring 310, the tray 300 may protrude forwardfrom the base 113.

Hereinafter, the base 113 and the tray 300 will be described in detail.

Referring to FIGS. 10 to 12, the base 113 defines a bottom surface ofthe water purifier 10. Also, a circumference of the base 113 may extendupward to be coupled to the side panel 115, the front cover 111, and therear cover 112.

A leg 113 a protruding downward may be disposed on the base 113. The leg113 a may be provided in plurality on the base 113 so that the entirebottom surface of the base 113 is spaced apart from the ground. Thus,external air may be easily suctioned through the bottom surface of thebase 113.

The rotatable ring 310 may be rotatably mounted on a front portion ofthe base 113. The tray 300 may be detachably coupled to one side of afront portion of the rotatable ring 310 and connected to the rotatablering 310 to rotate in a left and right direction.

The front portion of the base 113 may be stepped at a height less thanthat of a rear portion of the base 113. Also, an opening may be definedbetween the front portion of the base 113 and the lower end of the frontcover 111, and a side part of the tray 300 may be exposed to the outsidethrough the opening. Thus, the tray 300 may rotatable in the left andright direction in the state of being coupled to the rotatable ring 310.

Also, the stepped portion between the front portion and the rear portionof the base 113 may serve as a stopper 113 b for suppressing a rotationangle of the tray 300 when the tray 300 rotates. Also, when the tray 300rotates, both side surfaces of the tray 300 may come into contact withthe stopper 113 b to suppress the rotation of the tray 300.

Also, a movement prevention part 113 c for preventing the tray 300 fromvertically moving extends forward from the stopper 113 b of the base113. The movement prevention part 113 c may restrict both sides of therear end of the tray 300 in the state in which the tray 300 rotates.

A rotation guide part is disposed in the base 113. The rotation guidepart may include a first rotation guide part 113 d and a second rotationguide part 113 e, which are concentrically disposed on the base 113. Thefirst rotation guide part 113 d may be disposed outside the secondrotation guide part 113 e. Each of the first rotation guide part 113 dand the second rotation guide part 113 e may protrude upward at apredetermined curvature from the bottom surface of the base 113 to guidethe rotation of the rotatable ring 310. Each of the rotation guide parts113 d and 113 e may have a circular shape or an arc shape.

The rotatable ring 310 may be guided by the rotation guide parts 113 dand 113 e and mounted rotatable with respect to the base 113 to supportthe tray 300. The rotatable ring 310 may include an outer ring part 311,an inner ring part 312, and a ring joint part 313.

The outer ring part 311 may provide an outer frame and shape of therotatable ring 310. The outer ring part 311 has a circular shape, and atleast a portion of the outer ring part 311 comes into contact with anouter surface of the first rotation guide part 113 d and is rotatablymounted along the first rotation guide part 113 d.

Also, the inner ring part 312 is concentrically disposed within theouter ring part 311. The inner ring part 312 has a circular shape, andat least a portion of the inner ring part 312 comes into contact with anouter surface of the second rotation guide part 113 e to suppress themovement of the base in the front and rear direction. Also, the innerring part 312 is guided by the second rotation guide part 113 e and thusrotatably mounted in place.

A tray mounting part 314 is disposed at one side of the outer ring part311 so as to be coupled to the tray 300. The tray mounting part 314 mayhave an accommodation hole 314 a having the same size and shape as atray coupling part 301 of the tray 300. The accommodation hole 314 a isopened in a direction facing the tray coupling part 301 so that the traycoupling part 301 is inserted into and coupled to the tray mounting part314 through the accommodation hole 314 a.

When the tray coupling part 301 is inserted into and coupled to the traymounting part 314, the tray mounting part 314 may surround the traycoupling part 301 to come into contact with an outer surface of the traycoupling part 301 and support the tray coupling part 301 so that thetray coupling part 301 does not move in up and down/left and rightdirections. However, the tray coupling part 301 may be movably insertedand withdrawn in the front and rear direction within the tray mountingpart 314.

A projection 314 b may be disposed inside the tray mounting part 314.Also, since a coupling groove 302 is defined in the tray coupling part301, when the tray coupling part 301 is inserted into the tray mountingpart 314, the projection 314 b may be coupled to the coupling groove 302to maintain the state in which the tray 300 is mounted on the rotatablering 310. Also, when the tray 300 is mounted, the coupling between theprojection 314 b and the coupling groove 302 may be easily recognized.Since the tray coupling part 301 is inserted into and coupled to thetray mounting part 314, the tray 300 may be coupled to the rotatablering 310 to rotate in the left and right direction with respect to thebase 113.

A separation prevention projection 113 f is disposed on the secondrotation guide part 113 e to prevent the rotatable ring 310 from beingseparated from the second rotation guide part 113 e. An upper end of theseparation prevention projection 113 f may have a hook shape that ishooked with a top surface of the inner ring part 312. Thus, when thetray 300 rotates, the rotatable ring 310 may be lifted upward to preventthe rotatable ring 310 from being separated from the second rotationguide part 113 e and stably maintain the rotation of the tray 300.

A pressure sensitive valve 116 may be provided at a center of the frontportion of the base 113. The pressure sensitive valve 116 may adjust apressure of water supplied from a water supply system to smoothlyperform water purifying and adjust a water pressure when the water isdispensed. The pressure sensitive valve 116 may be disposed in aninternal region of the inner ring part 312 when the rotatable ring 310is mounted to improve space efficiency.

A mounting part 113 g on which the compressor 141 is mounted is disposedon a central portion of the base 113. The mounting part 113 g mayprotrude upward to support the compressor 141. Also, four mounting parts113 g may be provided to support four corners of the bottom surface ofthe compressor 141. Also, a nut is insert-injection-molded to themounting part 113 g. Thus, after the compressor 141 is seated, the screwmay be coupled from a lower side to fix the compressor 141.

A suction grill 113 h is further disposed at the central portion of thebase 113. At least a portion of the suction grill 113 h may be disposedbetween the mounting parts 113 g and also disposed below the compressor141. Thus, air suctioned into the water purifier 10 may pass through thecompressor 141 to cool the compressor 141. The suction grill 113 h mayhave a lattice shape. Also, a plurality of suction holes may be definedin the suction grill 113 h to prevent foreign substances from beingintroduced from the outside.

A condenser bracket 144 in which the condenser 142 is accommodated isdisposed at a rear side of the suction grill 113 h. The condenserbracket 144 is disposed on the rear portion of the base 113. Thecondenser bracket 144 may include a condenser mounting part 145 fixed tothe base 113 and a tank mounting part 146 disposed above the condensermounting part 145.

A cooling fan 143 is disposed on a front surface of the condensermounting part 145. External air may be suctioned through the suctiongrill 113 h by the cooling fan 143 to cool the compressor 141 and thecondenser 142 and then be discharged to a discharge hole 112 a. Also, arear surface of the condenser mounting part 145 comes into contact withthe discharge hole 112 a. The condenser 142 accommodated in thecondenser mounting part 145 is disposed adjacent to the discharge hole112 a of the water purifier 10.

A cord mounting part 113 i to which a power cord 117 is fixed isdisposed on a rear end of the base 103. Also, a cord guide part 113 j isdisposed from the cord mounting part 113 i to a central portion of thebase 113. Thus, the power cord 117 may be movable along the cord guidepart 113 j and connected to the control assembly 170.

Also, a water inflow tube entrance 113 k into which a water inflow tube191 is introduced is provided in the rear end of the base 113, and thewater inflow tube 191 connected to the water supply system is introducedthrough the water inflow tube entrance 113 k. An end of the water inflowtube 191 may extend up to the pressure sensitive valve 116. Also, a tubeguide 118 for preventing the water inflow tube 191 from being folded maybe further provided at a portion of a bent section of the water inflowtube 191. The tube guide 118 may be made of a plastic material and guidethe water inflow tube 191 to prevent the water inflow tube 191 frombeing excessively bent or folded. The tube guide 118 may be furtherdisposed on the tubes through which the purified water, the cold water,and the hot water flow.

Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, the tray 300 may include a tray bodyhaving a storage space therein and a tray cover 330 detachably coupledto cover an upper portion of the tray body 320.

The storage space may be recessed downward in the tray body 320 to storeremnant water therein. An edge of the tray body 320 may surround a sidesurface of a border of the tray cover 330. A support part 321 supportinga bottom surface of the tray cover 330 may be disposed in the tray body320.

A recess part 322 is defined in a bottom surface of the tray body 320.The recess part 322 may protrude downward from the bottom surface of thetray body 320 to come into contact with the ground on which the waterpurifier 10 is installed and thereby to support the bottom surface ofthe tray 300. Thus, the water purifier 10 may be supported at apredetermined height without dropping from the ground on which the waterpurifier 10 is installed when the tray 300 rotates in the left and rightdirection.

The recess part 322 may have a size equal to or greater than that of afloater 340 so that the floater 340 is accommodated. Thus, the floater340 may be disposed inside the recess part 322 so as to be elevatedaccording to a water level.

The floater 340 may include a floating part 341, an indicator 342, and acap 343. The floating part 341 may have a size that is capable of beingaccommodated in the recess part 322 and be made of material that isfloatable in water by buoyancy.

Also, the indicator 342 may be disposed on an upper end of the floatingpart 341 and mounted to be fixed to the floating part 341 by the cap343. The indicator 342 may have a ring shape and also have a colordifferent from each of the floating part 341, the cap 343, and the traycover 330.

Also, the cap 343 may be dispose don an upper end of the floater 340 toprovide a portion exposed to the tray cover 330. The cap 343 includes anexposure part 343 a exposed to the tray cover 330 and a through-part 343b extending downward from the exposure part 343 a. The exposure part 343a may have the same diameter and shape as the indicator 342. Also, thethrough-part 343 b may pass through the indicator 342 and then beinserted into the upper end of the floating part 341.

In a state in which a predetermined amount of water is not filled intothe tray 300, a top surface of the cap 343 may be disposed on the sameplane as the top surface of the tray cover 330 or disposed below the topsurface of the tray cover 330. Also, when a predetermined amount or moreof water is filled into the tray 300, or water is fully filled into thetray 300, the floating part 341 may be floated by the buoyancy, andthus, the cap 343 may also further protrude from the top surface of thetray cover 330.

Here, as illustrated in FIG. 14, when the floating part 341 iscompletely floated, the indicator 342 may protrude upward from the topsurface of the tray cover 330. Thus, the user may recognize the fulllevel when the color of the indicator 342 is identified, and thus, thetray 300 may be separated to empty the stored water.

Also, a concave part 323 that is recessed in an arc shape may be definedin a rear surface of the tray body 320 and a rear end of the tray cover330. The concave part 323 may surround a portion of the rotatable ring310, and the rear end of the tray 300 may be closely attached to therotatable ring 310.

Also, a protrusion 325 protrudes backward from each of both sides of therear end of the tray body 320. The protrusion 325 may have an outersurface that extends with the same plane as one side surface of the traybody 320 to cover a connection portion between the tray 300 and therotatable ring 310.

Particularly, when the tray 300 rotates, an outer appearance may extendfrom an outer appearance of the front surface of the water purifier,which is rounded. Thus, the outer appearance may be maintained in theelegant state regardless of the rotation of the tray 300.

Also, the tray coupling part 301 protrudes backward from a center of theconcave part 323 of the tray body 320 to couple the tray 300 to therotatable ring 310. The tray coupling part 301 may be inserted into andcoupled to the tray mounting part 314 when the tray 300 is mounted.

A plurality of slits 331 may be provided in the tray cover 330. Thus,the remnant water may be introduced into the storage space of the traybody 320 through the slits 331 and prevented from being splashed out ofthe tray body 320.

An indicating hole 332 may be further defined in the tray cover 330. Theindicating hole 332 may be defined at a position corresponding to thatof the cap 343 of the floater 340 and have the same size as the cap 343.Thus, when the floater 340 is elevated, the cap 343 may vertically movethrough the indicating hole 332. Also, when the tray 300 is fully filledwith water, the indicator 342 may be exposed to the outside of theindicating hole 332 to indicate a full level state of the water to theuser.

A water collection hole 333 may be further defined in the tray cover330. The water collection hole 333 may be opened just below the waterdischarge nozzle 280. Thus, when water is dispensed in a state in whicha container such as a cup is not disposed on the tray 300, the droppingwater may pass through the water collection hole 333 and then bedirectly collected in the tray 300.

Hereinafter, a process for dispensing water in the water purifier havingthe above-described structure according to another embodiment will bedescribed.

FIG. 18 is a schematic circuit diagram illustrating a flow path of waterin the water purifier. Also, FIG. 19 is a block diagram illustrating aflow of a control signal in the water purifier.

Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, the water inflow tube 181 of the waterpurifier 10 is connected to the water supply system to receive rawwater. The water inflow tube 191 is connected to the pressure sensitivevalve 192, and the raw water passing through the pressure sensitivevalve 192 is decompressed to a preset pressure for the operation of thewater purifier 10.

Also, the decompressed raw water flows to the filter 120 along the tubeconnecting the pressure sensitive valve 192 to the filter 120. Foreignsubstances contained in the raw water may be removed while passingthrough the filter 120, and then, the water may be purified. Also, afeed valve 193 may be opened to allow the purified water to sequentiallypass through the feed valve 193 and a flow sensor 194 along the tube.

Here, the feed valve 193 and the flow sensor 194 may be connected to amain PCB 510. A degree of opening of the feed valve 193 may be adjustedaccording to a signal transmitted to the main PCB 510. Also, informationwith respect to a flow rate detected by the flow sensor 194 may betransmitted to the main PCB 510 and used as data for controlling thewater purifier.

The purified water passing through the flow sensor 194 may be branchedinto a cold and purified water side 195 a and a hot water side 195 bthrough a branch tube 195.

First, the purified water flowing to the tube of the cold and purifiedwater side 195 a may be branched again into a cold water side 196 a anda purified water side 196 b by a T connector 196 and then respectivelyconnected to a cold water discharge valve 197 and a purified waterdischarge valve 198. The purified water discharge valve and the coldwater discharge valve 197 may be connected to the main PCB 510 and thusbe opened and closed by the control of the main PCB 510. That is, thepurified water discharge valve 198 and the cold water discharge valve197 may be selected by user's setting. The water discharge button 420may be manipulated to open the selected valve and dispense water.

The water passing through the cold water discharge valve 197 may passthrough a cooling coil within the cooling tank 150. The water flowingalong the cooling coil is heat-exchanged with cooling water within thecooling tank 150. For this, the cooling water may be cooled to bemaintained at a preset temperature.

To cool the cooling water, the compressor 141 connected to the main PCB510 is driven. The driving of the compressor 141 may be determined by acold water temperature sensor 152 provided in the cooling tank 150.Thus, the cooling water may be always maintained at the presettemperature. For this, the driving of the compressor 141 may becontrolled. The compressor 141 may be adjusted in frequency tocorrespond to a load that is required for an inverter compressor andthus adjusted in cooling capacity. That is, the compressor 141 may bedriven by the invert control to cool the cooling water with optimalefficiency.

An operation of the compressor 141 may be set in a forcibly turned-offstate by manipulating the manipulation part or manipulation portion 410by the user. The compressor 141 may be forcibly maintained in theturn-off state when cold water consumption is low at winter, powersaving is required, or the cold water is not desired to be used.

Also, the main PCB 510 may control the driving of the compressor 141 anddriving of the cooling fan 143. Also, the main PCB 510 may controldriving of an agitator motor 153 provided in the cooling tank 150. Themotor 153 may be driven to improve the heat-exchange efficiency betweenthe cold water and the cold water passing through the cooling coil andcontrolled by the main PCB 510. An agitator rotates by the driving ofthe motor 153, and the cold water may be forcibly convected within thecooling tank 150. As a result, the purified water within the coolingcoil may be effectively cooled.

The cold water passing through the cooling tank 150 may be introducedinto the water discharge tube 182 through the T-connector, and the coldwater passing through the water discharge tube 182 may be dispensed tothe outside through the water discharge nozzle 280.

When the purified water discharge valve 198 is opened, the purifiedwater passing through the purified water discharge valve 198 may beintroduced into the water discharge tube 182 through the T-connector 181and then pass through the water discharge tube 182 and be dispensed tothe outside through the water discharge nozzle 280.

When the user selects dispensing of the hot water, the purified watermay flow to the hot water side 195 b of the branch tube 195. A flow rateadjustment valve 199 is opened by the control of the main PCB 510, andwater flowing through the flow rate adjustment valve 199 is adjusted toan adequate flow rate for heating of the hot water. That is, an amountof purified water supplied to the hot water tank 161 may be adjusted sothat the water is heated at the preset temperature by the inductionheating assembly 160.

The purified water passing through the flow rate adjustment valve 199passes through the hot water tank 161. Also, while passing through thehot water tank 161, the water may be heated at the preset temperature.The hot water tank 161 may be heated in the induction heating manner.For this, an output of magnetic force of a working coil may be adjustedby the control of an induction heating PCB 520.

To drive the induction heating assembly 160, a high voltage is requiredfor the main PCB 510. To supply the high voltage, power may be suppliedfrom a power supply PCB 530 connected to a power line. The power supplyPCB 530 may supply adequate power according to whether the inductionheating assembly 160 is driven and also supply adequate power to themain PCB 510.

The water within the hot water tank 161 may be heated at the presettemperature by driving the induction heating assembly 160. A hot watertemperature sensor may be provided in the hot water discharge valve 183.The hot water temperature sensor may detect a temperature of hot waterdischarged via the hot water tank 161 to transmit the detectedtemperature data to the main PCB 510. Also, the output of the workingcoil may be adjusted based on the hot water temperature data inputtedinto the main PCB 510.

Also, a tank temperature sensor 162 provided outside the hot water tank161 may detect a temperature of the hot water tank 161 itself. When thetemperature detected by the tank temperature sensor 162 is above thepreset temperature to cause possibility of firing, a signal may betransmitted to the main PCB 510 to break a fuse 184. An over loadprotection (OLP) 147 may be connected to the main PCB 510. The OLP 147may cut off the power supply when the overload occurs in the compressor141 to protect the compressor 141.

When the fuse 184 is broken due to an abnormal operation of theinduction heating assembly 160, power supplied from the power supply PCB530 to the induction heating PCB 520 may be cut off to prevent theinduction heating assembly 160 from being overheated or damaged.

The hot water heated by passing through the hot water tank 161 by thehot water discharge valve 183 may flow to the water discharge nozzle 280through the hot water tube 185 and then dispensed to the outside.

When water is dispensed by the manipulation of the water dischargebutton 420, an LED of the manipulation part 410 may be turned on by thecontrol of a manipulation part PCB 411.

A hot water button, a purified water button, and a cold water button maybe provided on the manipulation part 410. Here, in case of the hot waterbutton, a temperature of the hot water may be set. Also, an amountselection button for setting an amount of water to be dispensed and acontinuous button for selecting continuous dispensing may be provided.Also, a locking button for temporarily blocking the manipulation of themanipulation part 410 may be provided.

In the manipulation part PCB 411, a state or a change cycle of thefilter 120 may be recognized through a color of a switch LED 412 that isturned on, which is displayed through the water discharge button 420regardless of the manipulation of the water discharge button.

Also, information with respect to an operation state or operation degreeof the water purifier 10 may be transmitted to a terminal such as auser's mobile phone through an NFC (near-field communication) PCB 430and then displayed. Also, information and operation signal may betransmitted to the NFC PCB 430 through the terminal, and the waterpurifier 10 may be driven by using the transmitted information.

For example, the user may confirm information such as a lifespan of thefilter 120 and a use pattern of the water purifier 10 through anapplication installed in the terminal. Also, an operation of the waterpurifier 10 such as setting of a saving mode in which a cold water modeof the water purifier 10 is turned off may be set through theapplication.

While the water purifier 10 is used, the cooling water within thecooling tank 150 may be drained, and then, new cooling water may befilled into the cooling tank 150.

Embodiments provide a water purifier that is capable of freely adjustinga height of a water discharge nozzle.

Embodiments also provide a water purifier in which water dispensed froma water discharge nozzle is prevented from being splashed out of a cupby a head of water dispensed from a water discharge nozzle.

Embodiments also provide a water purifier in which a water dischargenozzle does not randomly drop down by a self-weight of a movable case ina state in which the movable case, on which a water discharge nozzle ismounted, is completely accommodated in a fixed case, but be maintainedin the state of being accommodated in the fixed case.

Embodiments also provide a water purifier in which a movable case, onwhich a water discharge nozzle is mounted, is fixed at a desiredposition even though a user's hand leaves from the movable case in astate in which the user holds the movable case to allow the movable caseto descend to the desired position.

Embodiments also provide a water purifier in which a movable case onwhich a water discharge nozzle is mounted is straightly elevated.

Embodiments also provide a water purifier in which a movable case onwhich a water discharge nozzle is mounted is smoothly elevated.

Embodiments also provide a water purifier in which a movable case onwhich a water discharge nozzle is mounted is accurately elevated up to aheight that is desired by a user.

Embodiments also provide a water purifier in which operationalsensitivity felt by a user is improved while a movable case on which awater discharge nozzle is mounted is elevated.

Embodiments also provide a water purifier in which deformation of afixed case and a movable case such as warpage is prevented, and mutualcoupling force is secured.

Embodiments also provide a water purifier in which a movable case iselevated without being shaken in front and rear directions or left andright directions.

Embodiments also provide a water purifier in which a movable case and afixed case are easily coupled to each other.

Embodiments also provide a water purifier in which a user holds amovable case to elevate the movable case without being slid.

Embodiments also provide a water purifier which is capable of reducingabrasion and noises generated due to friction between a movable case anda fixed case.

Embodiments also provide a water purifier in which a tray rotates to adesired position and is freely detachable to improve user's convenience.

Embodiments also provide a water purifier in which various parts are notexposed to the outside to realize an elegant outer appearance.

Embodiments also provide a water purifier which is hygienic and capableof preventing a water discharge nozzle from being damaged and deformed.

Embodiments also provide a water purifier which is capable of preventingsafety accident because short children do not recognize a manipulationpart and also do not easily manipulate the manipulation part even thoughthe children recognize the manipulation part.

Embodiments also provide a water purifier in which all of adults andshort children are capable of recognizing a water discharge button andeasily manipulating the water discharge button to dispense water whendischarge of the water is required.

In one embodiment, a water purifier includes: a water purifier bodyincluding a housing defining an outer appearance and a filter providedin the housing to filter raw water introduced from the outside; a waterdischarge module including a water discharge nozzle that protrudesforward from the water purifier body to supply the water passing throughthe filter to the outside of the water purifier body; and a traydisposed below the water discharge nozzle, wherein the water dischargemodule includes: a fixed case providing an elevation space in a verticaldirection, having a lower side so that the elevation space communicateswith the outside, and fixed to the water purifier body; a movable caseto which the water discharge nozzle is fixed and which is accommodatedin the elevation space of the fixed case so as to be elevated; and aresistance unit provided in the fixed case or the movable case to reduceelevation force, which is applied to the movable case to ascend ordescend. Thus, in the state in which the movable case is completelyaccommodated in the fixed case, the movable case may be maintained inthe accommodated state without randomly descending by the self-weightthereof. Also, in the state in which the user holds the movable case toallow the movable case to descend up to a desired position, although theuser's hand leaves from the movable case, the movable case may be fixedto the position.

A guide part guiding the movable case to straightly elevate the movablecase may be disposed in the fixed case or the movable case. The guidepart may include: a guide groove defined in the fixed case in theelevation direction; and a guide piece disposed on the movable case andinserted into the guide groove. Thus, the guide piece may be insertedinto the guide groove having a linear shape to straightly move along theguide groove. Thus, the movable case may be straightly elevated.

The guide piece may be rotatably mounted on the movable case. Thus, theguide piece may be straightly elevated along the guide groove in a statein which friction force between the guide piece and the guide groove ismaximally reduced. Thus, the movable case may be smoothly elevated, andthe user may feel improved operational sensitivity.

First gear teeth may be disposed inside the guide groove, and secondgear teeth engaged with the first gear teeth may be disposed on an outercircumferential surface of the guide piece. Thus, while the guide piecerotates, the guide piece may be more accurately and straightly elevatedalong the guide groove, and thus, the elevation of the movable case maybe more accurately and straightly elevated.

The resistance unit may include an oil damper. The resistance unit mayinclude an oil damper, and the guide piece may be connected to arotation shaft of the resistance unit. Thus, the movable case may beprevented from descending by a self-weight, and the user may feel theimproved operational sensitivity when the user manipulates the elevationof the movable case.

The fixed case and the movable case may come into line contact with eachother. At least one or more contact projections may be disposed on thefixed case or the movable case along the elevation direction of themovable case. Thus, the friction force between the fixed case and themovable case may be reduced, and the fixed case and the movable case maybe contact-supported by each other to prevent the fixed case and themovable case from being deformed such as warpage and secure couplingforce between the fixed case and the movable case.

The fixed case may include a wing part extending outward from each ofboth sides of a rear portion of the fixed case, the movable case mayinclude an extension part extending in parallel to the wing part fromeach of both sides of the rear portion of the movable case and a bentpart extending to be bent forward from the extension part and has an endon which a hook is disposed inward, and the wing part may beaccommodated in a accommodation groove between the extension part andthe hook. Thus, the bent part may be supported by the wing part toelevate the movable case without being shaken in the left and rightdirection.

A first contact projection may be disposed on a surface of the wing partfacing the extension part in the elevation direction of the movablecase. A second contact projection may be disposed on a surface of thehook facing the wing part in the elevation direction of the movablecase. Thus, the fixed case and the movable case may doubly come intoline contact with each other, and the movable case may be elevated sothat the movable case is more stably elevated.

Inclined surfaces that are parallel to each other may be disposed on afront surface of the hook and a rear surface of the wing part,respectively. Thus, the movable case may be easily inserted forward froma rear side of the fixed case.

A handle part protruding outward may be disposed on a lower end of eachof both sides of the movable case, and a seating groove in which thehandle part is seated may be defined in a lower end of each of bothsides of the fixed case. Thus, when the movable case ascends, the handlepart may be hung on the seating groove, and the seating groove may serveas a stopper for restricting an ascending height of the movable case.

A grasping groove that is recessed inward may be defined in the handlepart. Thus, the user may allow the movable case to descend or ascendwithout the movable case is slid.

At least one of the fixed case and the movable case may be made of anengineering plastic material having lubricity. Thus, when the movablecase is elevated within the fixed case, abrasion and noises due to thefriction between the fixed case and the movable case may be reduced, andthe operational sensitive may be improved.

The water purifier may further include a base defining a bottom surfaceof the housing of the water purifier, wherein the tray may be rotatablymounted on the base. The water purifier may further include a rotatablering rotatably mounted on the base, wherein the tray may be detachablymounted on the rotatable ring and extend to the outside of the housing.Thus, the tray may rotate to a desired position and freely detached toprovide user's convenience.

The water discharge module may further include a front case covering afront surface of the fixed case. Thus, the components such as theresistance unit and the guide part may not be exposed to realize anelegant outer appearance.

The water discharge nozzle may be made of a stainless steel material.Thus, the water discharge nozzle may not be rust to prevent damage anddeformation from being occurring due to the frequent use. Also, theelegant outer appearance may be further improved.

The water discharge nozzle may be integrated with the movable case or aconnection member connecting the movable case to the water dischargenozzle through an insert injection manner. Thus, the coupling forcebetween the water discharge nozzle and the movable or connection member,furthermore, a supply hose may increase to prevent water from leaking.Also, manufacture may be facilitated when compared to the existingassembly method.

A manipulation part may be disposed on a top surface of the waterdischarge module. Thus, in case of short children, the children may notrecognize the manipulation part and also may not easily manipulate themanipulation part even though the children recognize the manipulationpart to prevent safety accidents from occurring.

A water discharge button may be disposed on a front surface of the waterdischarge module. Adults and short children may recognize the waterdischarge button and easily manipulate the water discharge button whendischarge of water is required to dispense the water.

It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to asbeing “on” another element or layer, the element or layer can bedirectly on another element or layer or intervening elements or layers.In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on”another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layerspresent. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and allcombinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, third,etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components,regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions,layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These termsare only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer orsection from another region, layer or section. Thus, a first element,component, region, layer or section could be termed a second element,component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachingsof the present disclosure.

Spatially relative terms, such as “lower”, “upper” and the like, may beused herein for ease of description to describe the relationship of oneelement or feature to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated inthe figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms areintended to encompass different orientations of the device in use oroperation, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. Forexample, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements describedas “lower” relative to other elements or features would then be oriented“upper” relative the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplaryterm “lower” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. Thedevice may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at otherorientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used hereininterpreted accordingly.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularembodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure.As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended toinclude the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicatesotherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises”and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify thepresence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements,and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of oneor more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements,components, and/or groups thereof.

Embodiments of the disclosure are described herein with reference tocross-section illustrations that are schematic illustrations ofidealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of the disclosure.As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result,for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to beexpected. Thus, embodiments of the disclosure should not be construed aslimited to the particular shapes of regions illustrated herein but areto include deviations in shapes that result, for example, frommanufacturing.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientificterms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by oneof ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure relates. It willbe further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly useddictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that isconsistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art andwill not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unlessexpressly so defined herein.

Any reference in this specification to “one embodiment,” “anembodiment,” “example embodiment,” etc., means that a particularfeature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with theembodiment is included in at least one embodiment. The appearances ofsuch phrases in various places in the specification are not necessarilyall referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particularfeature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection withany embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the purview of oneskilled in the art to effect such feature, structure, or characteristicin connection with other ones of the embodiments.

Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number ofillustrative embodiments thereof, it should be understood that numerousother modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled inthe art that will fall within the spirit and scope of the principles ofthis disclosure. More particularly, various variations and modificationsare possible in the component parts and/or arrangements of the subjectcombination arrangement within the scope of the disclosure, the drawingsand the appended claims. In addition to variations and modifications inthe component parts and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also beapparent to those skilled in the art.

What is claimed is:
 1. A liquid dispenser, comprising: a housing; afilter provided in the housing to filter water; a tray extending fromthe housing; a water discharge module including: a water dischargenozzle provided to dispense water, the water discharge nozzle connectedto the filter via a supply line so as to receive water through thefilter; a fixed case extending from the housing, the fixed case fixed tothe housing at a predetermined distance above the tray to provide aspace between the fixed case and the tray, and the fixed case includingan opening in a lower portion thereof; a movable case to which the waterdischarge nozzle is attached and which is provided in the opening of thefixed case, the movable case adjustably attached to the fixed case toenable vertical adjustment of the movable case within the space; and aguide provided in at least one of the fixed case and the movable casethat guides vertical movement of the movable case within the space,wherein the guide includes: a guide groove defined in the fixed case ina direction of the vertical adjustment; and a guide piece provided onthe movable case and inserted into the guide groove.
 2. The liquiddispenser according to claim 1, wherein the guide piece is rotatablymounted on the movable case.
 3. The liquid dispenser according to claim2, wherein first gear teeth are provided inside the guide groove.
 4. Theliquid dispenser according to claim 3, second gear teeth are provided onan outer circumferential surface of the guide piece, the second gearteeth provided to engage with the first gear teeth.
 5. The liquiddispenser according to claim 1, further including a damper provided inone of the fixed case and the movable case, the damper configured tomechanically resist the vertical adjustment within the space and toallow vertical adjustment under an externally applied force to enablethe moveable case to ascend or descend within the space.
 6. The liquiddispenser according to claim 5, wherein the damper includes an oildamper.
 7. The liquid dispenser according to claim 6, wherein the guidepiece is connected to a rotation shaft of the damper.
 8. The liquiddispenser according to claim 1, wherein the fixed case and the movablecase directly contact with each other.
 9. The liquid dispenser accordingto claim 8, wherein at least one contact projection is provided on asurface of at least one of the fixed case and the movable case, and thesurface extending along a direction of the vertical adjustment of themovable case.
 10. The liquid dispenser according to claim 1, wherein thefixed case includes a wing part extending outward from each of bothsides of a rear portion of the fixed case, the movable case includes (a)an extension part extending in parallel to the wing part from each ofboth sides of the rear portion of the movable case, (b) a bent partextending forward from the extension part, and the bent part includingan end, and (c) a hook provided on the end of the bent part, and thehook extending inward, and the wing part is accommodated in anaccommodation groove between the extension part and the hook.
 11. Theliquid dispenser according to claim 10, wherein a first contactprojection is provided on a surface of the wing part facing theextension part, the surface extending along a direction of the verticaladjustment of the movable case.
 12. The liquid dispenser according toclaim 10, wherein a second contact projection is provided on a surfaceof the hook facing the wing part, the surface of the hook extendingalong a direction of the vertical adjustment of the movable case. 13.The liquid dispenser according to claim 10, wherein inclined surfacesthat are parallel to each other are provided on a front surface of thehook and a rear surface of the wing part, respectively.
 14. The liquiddispenser according to claim 1, wherein the movable case includes ahandle portion, which protrudes outward, provided on a lower end of eachof both sides of the movable case, the fixed case includes a seatinggroove defined in a lower end of each of both sides of the fixed case,and the handle portion is seated in the seating groove.
 15. The liquiddispenser according to claim 14, wherein a grasping groove that isrecessed inward is defined in the handle portion.
 16. The liquiddispenser according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the fixed caseand the movable case is made of an engineering plastic material havinglubricity.
 17. The water purifier according to claim 1, furtherincluding a base defining a bottom surface of the housing of the liquiddispenser, wherein the tray is rotatably mounted on the base.
 18. Thewater purifier according to claim 17, further including a rotatable ringrotatably mounted on the base, wherein the tray is detachably mounted onthe rotatable ring and extends from the housing.